Get Ready for Good Times at the Florida State Fair

People have been coming to the Florida State Fair for more than a century. First started way back in 1904 as the South Florida Fair, this much loved event has always been held in Tampa, but took the name Florida State Fair in 1915 to show that it represented everything that the state had to offer. For those seeking to learn about the rich agricultural promise of the Sunshine State, there’s no better event. But, if you couldn’t give two figs about livestock and poultry don’t worry – there’s plenty of other fun stuff to do there that has very little to do with agriculture.

The entertainment line-up is always a huge draw for festival attendees, and this year’s musical acts range from country rap sensation Colt Ford, 60s star Gary Puckett (remember Young Girl? That was his biggest hit with his band The Union Gap), and plenty of tribute bands covering everyone from the Beatles to Elvis, and a host of 80s artists. There are also pop and jazz acts to enjoy.

Thrill seekers will love exploring the rides at this year’s Florida State Fair midway. There are more than 100 rides spread over three zones, the thrill Zone for adrenaline junkies, the Family Zone for tamer rides, and the Kid Zone for the little ones.

There will of course be plenty of fun fair foods to sample. New classics such as deep-fried Twinkies and Oreos will be on offer, and plenty of unique foods on sticks. You have to wonder how Fair favorite Carousel Foods will outdo themselves this year, after creating such delicacies as deep-fried Oreo bacon burgers and Krispy Kreme burgers for previous fairs. Rumor is, there will be a funnel cake pizza on offer too. Make sure to wear your stretchy pants if you’re planning to eat here.

As for non-musical entertainment, you’ll find comedy acts, stunt drivers, baton twirlers, high divers, animal shows, butterflies, and reptiles. The agricultural shows and exhibitions at this Fair are top notch, and there is so much to see. The tagline for this year’s show is “So much more to explore,” and it really does ring true.

If you’re interested in learning about rural Florida’s history, then the Fair’s partnership with Cracker Country gives you a perfect chance to do just that at its living museum (which isn’t usually open to the public except for special occasions and events). Entry to Cracker Country is included in your Fair price of admission, and once you get there you can not only stroll the grounds checking out the buildings and exhibits, but also interact with the knowledgeable interpreters dressed in period costume, try your hands at crafts, and eat traditionally made foods such as boiled peanuts and jerky.

The Florida State Fair runs from February 5th through 14th, and Scootaround is proud to be the exclusive scooter rental service of this event. Contact us to see how we can help with your mobility needs, and make it easier for you to explore every inch of this huge venue.